Over 139 people to face trial after Saturday riots in Paris - reports

PARIS, Dec 3: A total of 139 people who were detained following the "yellow vest" protests in Paris on Saturday will face trial, local media reported Monday, citing the prosecutor's office.

According to BFMTV broadcaster, prosecutors have extended the detention terms for 111 people. On Saturday, Paris witnessed mass violent riots organized by the so-called yellow vest activists, who are protesting the growing prices for fuel that were a result of a diesel tax passed last year. A total of 412 people were detained and 133 people were injured, including 23 police officers.

The "yellow vest" protests, with activists wearing fluorescent safety vests, have been taking place in France since November 17.

In late 2017, the French government approved a decision to raise the direct tax on diesel fuel, which is the most popular type of fuel in the country. The diesel prices in France have risen by around 23 percent since the beginning of the year, while gasoline prices have gone up by 15 percent. Prices are set to increase further in January.

Commenting on the protests, French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned the violence and stressed that the country's authorities would not revise their decision on the diesel tax. (UNI-SPUTNIK)